Alisauskas suspended

Lithuanian player to miss finale

VILNIUS – The IIHF Disciplinary Panel has issued a one-game suspension to Lithuanian defenceman Nerijus Alisauskas for a kneeing infraction committed during Lithuania's game against Romania at the 2014 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship Division I Group B.

Alisauskas will miss his team’s final game against Croatia.

The violation occurred on 24 April midway through the second period against Romania. With the score 2-1 in favour of the Lithuanians, Romanian forward Matyas Biro gained possession of the puck at center ice and was moving up the ice.

As Alisauskas closed in on Biro he took a very wide stance in preparation to deliver a check. Biro attempted to avoid the check and Alisauskas left his right leg extended causing the leg to leg contact. Biro was injured and had to leave the game, while Alisauskas drew a minor penalty for kneeing.

Based on all facts ascertained, the Disciplinary Panel determined that:-Alisauskas made no attempt to play the puck and initiated the hit.

-Alisauskas had ample time and distance to make his decision on how he would deliver the check.

-Alisauskas failed to alter the path of his right leg, causing the knee to knee contact and injury.

Based on these facts, the Panel has given a suspension for one game to Alisauskas, specifically game 15 LTU vs CRO on 26 April 2014 at 20:00.